Page 27 of Guarded By the Bigfoot
His chuckle was weak, but it was genuine. “You love me anyway.”
“Yeah,” I said, holding him tighter as the calm finally settled around us. “I do.”
14
BROCK
The air carried the crisp scent of rain and moss as I stepped out onto the terrace, feeling at peace for the first time in years. Parker’s constant care had helped me recover my strength, while the soothing energies of this magical place rejuvenated my very soul.
The village was already alive with activity, bursts of color and music drifting up as preparations for the evening’s festivities began.
It was the Wind Moon Festival. But this year, it also served as a celebration to honor our victory, a show of gratitude for those who stood their ground when it mattered most.
My lips curved in a faint smile. After a lifetime spent guarding this realm from the shadows, it would be nice to bask in the light for once.
“Enjoying the view?” Parker’s voice came from behind me. Her light footsteps approached, her purple dress fluttering in the breeze.
“More than I thought possible.” I turned to face her. The sunlight caught in her hair, creating a halo effect that made my breath catch. “Thank you. For everything.”
“I’m just glad you’re back on your feet.” Her fingers brushed against my forearm, sending tingles of warmth through my skin. “Though I have to admit, having you confined to bed rest for a few days wasn’t entirely terrible.”
I caught her hand in mine. “For either of us.”
“The villagers have been asking about you,” she said. “They want to properly thank their protector.”
“I’m not good with crowds.”
Parker laughed. “The fearless Guardian, afraid of a little appreciation?”
“Give me a demon horde any day.” I gazed down at the bustling village. “At least I know how to handle those.”
“Well, you better figure it out quick. You’re the guest of honor tonight.” She bumped her hip against mine. “No escaping this time.”
“Is that a challenge?”
“It’s a promise.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief. “I’ll personally make sure you stay put.”
“Now that’s an incentive.” I pulled her closer, enjoying the way her body fit against mine. “You planning to keep me distracted all evening?”
“Maybe.” Her fingers traced patterns on my chest. “Unless you’d rather mingle with your adoring public?”
“I can think of better ways to spend the night.”
“So can I.” She rose on her tiptoes to whisper in my ear. “But first, you have to play nice with the villagers.”
I groaned. “You fight dirty, Parker.”
“Someone has to keep you in line.” She pressed a quick kiss to my jaw before stepping back. “Speaking of which, we need to get you properly dressed for tonight.”
“What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”
“Torn jeans and no shirt aren’t exactly appropriate party attire.”
“Says who?”
“Says the woman who spent hours patching you up.” She tugged at my hand. “Come on, tough guy. Time to make you presentable.”
“Fine.” I let her pull me toward the door. “But I draw the line at dancing.”
